Film Screening “Who Are The CAS Artists?”

Maija (left) and Chloe (right)

On 28 March 2015 artists assembled at Chapel Arts Studios Andover to watch 10 short films created by Maija Liepins as part of her “Who Are The CAS Artists?” Research Project. The project involved interviewing 17 associate artists. Maija devised 8 questions to prompt the artists to reflect and reveal the interests and motivations that inspire their work. Questions included “Why do you make art?”, “What inspires your work?”, and “What is your definition of success?”

I didn’t prepare the artists in any way, I wanted to capture the answers that came to mind in the moment. I think the artists were pleasantly surprised by the experience because we didn’t just talk about their work. Although that was part of it, I wanted to talk about them. By starting with the artist, and then moving on to discuss their work, the finished films provide insight into where their work comes from, and can spark ideas for future collaborations.” – Maija

The project was devised by Maija and made possible by Chloe Sutton Stacey and who edited approximately 17 hours of footage (!) to create the films you can see below. We also created and screened additional films to answer the question “What is this Dissent?”

Being part of the whole process was an absolute privilege, listening to every artist talk was inspiring I left each interview excited, motivated and amazed! Throughout we could see the connections growing between the artists and I couldn’t wait for the screening for everyone to see this for themselves! I feel so lucky to have been part of this and hope everyone gets a sense of the impressive capabilities of CAS Associate Artists.” – Chloe

Credit is due also to Test Valley Arts Foundation (TVAF) who generously paid for data recovery when half our footage was corrupted. CAS is incredibly grateful that TVAF recognised the value and importance of this project which was designed to create unity and connections amongst the CAS artists.

The films

Oh and the 28th March was also Chloe’s Birthday / Farewell (for now) Party – we wish her all the best for her Adventures in Australia

Artist Response

It’s very encouraging to realise that the associates have indeed got a lot of common ground. This relates to their practice, their outlook and their experiences/understanding of dissent. At the start it was just a hope, but the films have shown it’s actually working! Hoorah” – David

Having seen the video clips of my fellow CAS artists I feel so privileged to be part of this group.Their ideas, passion and insights are rich and nourishing. There is so much potential in this group to do exciting, creative and wonderful things. the ideas about myth-debunking, dissent and their relation to diverse art practices have given me lots of food for thought.” – Peter

I’ve almost left CAS a few times but there was something, an anchor keeping me, and it all became clear in the film screening. Because I didn’t know really what people were doing, and because I sometimes feel self conscious about the type of work I do, I was questioning whether I actually fit in with the group. So since the film screening, I know I do have a home, and it’s CAS, and I am happy.” – Clarrise

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About Maija

Maija is an Australian born artist. She enjoys finding ways to encourage and inspire creative expression. This thread is expressed in different ways through all Maija’s work including art, writing and consulting. With a background in design and collaborative project-management at Pixink Ltd, she has worked with many organisations and individuals to develop their brands and digital strategies. As Engagement Officer at CAS Maija manages CAS’ marketing / engagement strategy, and is responsible for supporting artists through its Associate Artist program.